To deafening loud cheers at the crucible of Russian and Soviet sports, former Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas held up the golden trophy for fans to photograph.
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World Cup trophy displayed at Moscow's Luzhniki as ceremony begins
The World Cup trophy was displayed at Moscow's 80,000-seat Luzhniki Stadium on Thursday ahead of the tournament's opening match between host nation Russia and Saudi Arabia.
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Outside the refurbished stadium, colourful crowds of fans danced and chanted, with a heavy police presence keeping order.
The mood was festive and peaceful, with Russian fans cheering a group of Saudi fans in green who were congregating outside one of the entrances.
The opening ceremony included a mini-concert by British pop star Robbie Williams, who performed "Let Me Entertain You".
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Russian President Vladimir Putin and FIFA boss Gianni Infantino officially open the tournament minutes before the 1500 GMT kickoff.
A bellowing chant of "Russia!" echoed through the packed stadium as the opening ceremony got under way to music from Russian composer Pyotr Tchaikovsky.
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